USB 3 and Type-C explained
USB is a standard for connecting devices such as PCs and smartphones, but the types and performance are diverse, and it can be difficult to choose which one to choose. Therefore, we explain Type-C and USB 3, which are often heard about with USB, and also introduce how to choose a cable.
What is Type-C?
Type-C is one type of connector shape for USB. Compared to the conventional Type-A and Type-B, Type-C has a small design and a convenient feature that allows connection from either direction. Also, Type-C has functions such as power supply and video output, and if it is supported, it can be connected to peripherals such as monitors and docking stations. However, it is important to note that not all cables have video output or high-speed communication capabilities. Therefore, there are also Type-C cables with slow USB 2.0 communication.
The relationship between Thunderbolt and Type-C
Thunderbolt has the same shape as Type-C, but the functions are different. In addition to normal data transfer, Thunderbolt can do the following:
- High-speed communication (Thunderbolt 3: 40 Gbps)
- Video output (DisplayPort)
- High current
What is USB 3?
USB 3 is a standard that improves the transfer speed and power supply capability of USB. USB 3.0 has a maximum transfer speed of 5 Gbps, USB 3.1 has a maximum transfer speed of 10 Gbps, and USB 3.2 has a maximum transfer speed of 20 Gbps. Also, USB PD (Power Delivery) technology has been introduced from USB 3.1, and it is now possible to supply up to 100 W of power.
The complexity of USB 3 standards
Due to the history of name changes with each version update, the names of USB 3 standards have become complicated. Below is a summary of USB standards. Items in the same row are the same standard.
| Common name | Old old name | Old name | Standard name | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USB 2.0 | - | - | --- | 480 Mbps |
| USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | 5 Gbps |
| USB 3.1 | - | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | 10 Gbps |
| USB 3.2 | - | - | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 | 20 Gbps |
How to choose a Type-C cable
When choosing a USB cable, first check whether it meets the standard suitable for the device you want to connect and your purpose. If you want high-speed data transfer or high-quality video output, it is good to choose a Type-C cable or Thunderbolt cable that supports USB 3.2 (USB 3.2 Gen 2x2). Also, if you want to supply power or charge, it is good to choose a Type-C cable that supports USB PD. However, it is important to note that the connected cable and the connected device must be the same standard.
Choosing a Thunderbolt cable
Thunderbolt cables are the strongest and most expensive cables among Type-C cables in terms of high performance.
Be careful of suspicious products
There are genuine Thunderbolt cables and fake Thunderbolt cables. A simple way to distinguish them is that Thunderbolt cables have a lightning bolt mark, and those without a mark or with the number 40 written on them are fake. Also, be careful, as cables that say "Thunderbolt compatible" are likely to be fake.
By the way, I purchased the following cables last month.
Type-C adapters
Type-C adapters exist. For example, the following:
These are used to connect Type-A devices to smartphones and PCs that only have Type-C ports.
Out Type-C adapters
Female Type-C adapters are out. For example:
- Type-C female to Type-A male
- Type-C female to Type-C male
It is preferable not to buy C to A adapters because they violate the standard.